Recommended Brackets For Base Rails From Reese Installation Kit on 2009 Dodge Ram 2500

Question:

I have the rails from kit 30095 and no hardware. I have an 09 Dodge 2500 6foot bed. I was thinking of using brackets 50140 with these rails. Will that work or do I need additional hardware ? Thank you.

asked by: Walter D

Expert Reply:

The Reese Fifth Wheel Installation Kit you have referenced is the universal installation kit. The universal 4-bolt rails work on your 2009 Dodge Ram if you do not have overload springs. You would use the Reese Universal Installation Kit, part # RP30125 as the hardware to install the base rails to your Dodge Ram without overload springs.

The Reese Quick-Install Custom Bracket Kit, part # RP50140, you have referenced is the custom bracket kit and will not work with the # RP30124 universal base rails. It is designed to work with the Reese 10-Bolt Universal Base Rails, part # RP58058.

We do not use the 4-bolt installation kit # RP30095 on your 2009 Dodge Ram 2500, because of ease of installation. I would recommend to use either the Reese Semi-Custom Base Rail and Installation Kit, part # RP30035-186, or the Reese Quick-Install Custom Base Rails and Installation Kit, part # RP50140-58. They both use the 10-bolt base rails and are easier to install, compared to the 4-bolt universal installation kit. The custom and semi-custom kits will use existing holes in the vehicles frame, which means less drilling and measuring, compared to the universal kit.

I am including links to the installation instructions on the two Reese custom installation kits.

Since your Ram 2500 is a short bed truck you will want to make sure you will be using a sliding fifth-wheel hitch when towing to gain the extra clearances that will be needed when making tight 90-degree turns.